Distributed Energy Resources: Issues and Challenges

Abstract

It is noticed, a hike in percentage over the smart grid interests in producers and consumers. In order to meet the requirements of the consumption of power we need to increase the use of renewable energy resources. Introduction:-As increasing demand of electricity in today's era, losses reduction, efficiency enhancement and making grid environment friendly are the necessities. Electricity must be generated, dispersed and distributed in real time. It is required to manage demand and supply in real time as well as ensure stability and power quality to consumers. Smart distribution is distributing energy in a smarter way. One of smarter approaches of distribution is, using micro grids concepts. Micro grids can be functioned in two different modes named as; connected to a grid and stand-alone mode. One of the main attractive features/advantages of these microgrids is its generation facilities, which could be centralized. This helps to provide the smaller and additional dispersed energy resources way and support to overcome the losses of traditional methods on economic scale [1]. Distributed energy resources (DERs) are small power resources, like solar photovoltaic, cogeneration systems, wind turbines, micro turbines, backup generators and energy storage devices that can be aggregated to meet the regular demands. It provides energy where ever it is needed [7]. It also provides the less expensive and fast option as compared to the large structured power plants. Usually, DER producing less than 10megawattenergyand is installed for meeting particular needs. DER system includes wind turbines, photovoltaic system, fuel cells, gas turbines, micro-turbines, internal combustion engines and energy storage system, which helps to enhance the operating ability of the electric grid independently. They are installed adjacent to the electricity consuming units such as home, business etc. and offer an improved alternative to the traditional electric power grid. DER is designed to distribute energy in smarter way to enhance the reliability, reduces cost, increasing efficiency and to meet the future demands of consumers. Distributed Energy Resources (Der):-A gradually refinement have all been occur in the DER technologies from the past several years. New technologies are highly efficient than the previous ones; therefore a replacement or upgrade may pay for itself sooner than expected. Also, safety of energy is a major issue at many Federal facilities. In those specific cases, DER systems can power mission-critical loads, reduce hazardous or costly power outages, and diversify the local energy supply [2].